Tecan Cavro Omni Flex Liquid Handling Robotic Arm
| Brand | Tecan Cavro |
|---|---|
| Origin | Malaysia |
| Manufacturer Type | Authorized Distributor |
| Origin Category | Imported |
| Model | Cavro Omni Flex |
| Pricing | Upon Request |
| Deck Capacity | User-Configurable |
| Pipetting Accuracy | <1% CV |
| Pipetting Range | 1 µL – 50 mL |
| Sample Throughput | User-Defined |
| Dimensions (L × W × H) | 715/965/1465 mm × 638 mm × 1047 mm |
Overview
The Tecan Cavro Omni Flex is a modular, high-precision liquid handling robotic arm engineered for integration into automated laboratory workflows. Based on proven Cavro fluidic architecture and designed for maximum adaptability, the Omni Flex employs positive displacement pipetting—either pneumatic or hydraulic—enabling reliable, low-volume dispensing with minimal carryover and high reproducibility. Its core architecture supports both fixed and variable deck configurations, allowing seamless adaptation to diverse assay formats including ELISA, NGS library prep, cell culture maintenance, and high-throughput screening (HTS). Unlike rigid benchtop workstations, the Omni Flex is built as a scalable platform: users define deck size, module placement, and peripheral integration points to match specific process requirements without compromising mechanical stability or positional accuracy.
Key Features
- Modular design supporting user-defined deck dimensions (715 mm, 965 mm, or 1465 mm length options) and customizable Z-height integration
- Positive-displacement pipetting technology with dual actuation options: pneumatic (for volatile solvents and low-viscosity liquids) or hydraulic (for higher viscosity, surfactant-rich, or particulate-containing samples)
- Integrated liquid level detection (LLD) and tip touch sensing for adaptive aspiration/dispense control across variable vessel geometries
- High-precision XYZ positioning system with optical encoders and closed-loop motion control, delivering sub-millimeter repeatability across full travel range
- Flexible consumable compatibility: supports both stainless-steel solid pins and disposable tips (including filtered and low-retention variants)
- Optional integrated LED task lighting and status-indicating safety LEDs compliant with IEC 61000-6-4 electromagnetic compatibility standards
- Configurable enclosure options—including ventilated, laminar-flow, or fully sealed biosafety-rated housings—for GLP/GMP or BSL-2 environments
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Omni Flex accommodates standard ANSI/SLAS-format microplates (96-, 384-, and 1536-well), tubes (0.2–50 mL), deep-well blocks, and custom labware via programmable coordinate mapping. All fluidic components are chemically resistant to common laboratory reagents, including DMSO, ethanol, and aqueous buffers. The system complies with ISO 8655-6 for piston-type volumetric apparatus calibration and meets essential requirements of IEC 61010-1 for electrical safety in laboratory equipment. When configured with audit-trail-enabled software and electronic signatures, it supports FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance for regulated environments. Optional wash stations integrate with validated cleaning protocols aligned with ASTM E2656 for residual contamination assessment.
Software & Data Management
Controlled via Tecan’s FluentControl™ or third-party API-compatible drivers (including RESTful and LabVIEW VIs), the Omni Flex enables deterministic script execution, real-time error logging, and traceable command history. Data export adheres to MIAME and MIAPE metadata standards. Firmware updates follow secure signed-package protocols, and all motion and pipetting events are timestamped with nanosecond resolution for forensic process reconstruction. Integrated diagnostics monitor pump wear, seal integrity, and motor load profiles—triggering preventive maintenance alerts before performance drift occurs.
Applications
- Automated nucleic acid extraction and normalization for qPCR and sequencing workflows
- Compound dilution series generation in drug discovery pipelines
- Cell-based assay setup requiring precise media exchange and reagent addition
- Automated QC sample preparation for clinical chemistry analyzers
- Integration into end-to-end diagnostic instrument platforms under IVD regulatory frameworks (IVDR Annex II)
- Customized bioprocess intermediate sampling and formulation verification
FAQ
What pipetting technologies does the Omni Flex support?
It offers both pneumatic and hydraulic positive-displacement pipetting modules—selected based on liquid properties and application requirements.
Can the Omni Flex be validated for GxP use?
Yes, when deployed with compliant software configuration, calibrated transducers, and documented IQ/OQ/PQ protocols, it meets GMP/GLP validation expectations.
Is remote monitoring and troubleshooting possible?
All units support Ethernet/IP-based telemetry and optional VPN-secured remote access for firmware diagnostics and log retrieval.
How is cross-contamination minimized during high-throughput runs?
Through air-gap aspiration, tip wiping, programmable tip ejection, and optional integrated wash stations with validated decontamination cycles.
Does Tecan provide application-specific method development support?
Yes—Tecan Application Scientists offer protocol optimization, deck layout simulation, and throughput benchmarking as part of pre-installation services.
